Finding affordable transportation in Greece can significantly enhance your travel experience while helping you save money. If you're exploring mainland attractions or discovering the Greek Islands on a budget, choosing the right car rental company at the best price ensures convenience and cost efficiency. With saving on car rental cost as a priority, you can compare rates, look for budget-friendly options, and find inclusive packages that eliminate hidden fees. These car rental companies in Greece offer affordable cars for hire that makes it easier to enjoy landscapes, cultural landmarks, and towns without stretching your budget.
1. Rental Center Crete - Car hire (Crete)
Rental Center Crete is one of Crete's most affordable and transparent car rental companies, offering competitive pricing, full insurance coverage, and unlimited mileage as standard. The main office at 1 Nidas Street, Heraklion, Crete, Greece, ensures easy access for visitors. Rental Center Crete also provides convenient delivery and pick-up services at airports, ports, and hotels across the island, making it easy for customers to start and end their trips seamlessly. Crete visitors can quickly connect with the Rental Center Crete for inquiries or bookings by calling +30 2810 240120, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Small cars at Rental Center Crete are available for hire from just €27/day ($29.30, £24.05), while spacious SUVs start at €67/day ($70.50, £62.69), providing exceptional value for all vehicle sizes and budgets. Harry Anapliotis is the current CEO and co-owner of Rental Center Crete since 2005. Petros Anapliotis, the brother of Harry, is the other co-owner of the company.
Rental Center Crete fleet caters to a variety of travel needs with small cars like the Fiat Panda and Toyota Aygo for city driving, medium cars for families or small groups, SUVs for exploring Crete’s rugged terrain, and minibuses for larger groups. All quoted prices include full insurance coverage, theft protection, unlimited mileage, VAT, and other taxes. Rental Center Crete rental includes unlimited mileage, allowing travellers to explore Crete without worrying about additional costs for distance travelled. Customers can enjoy the freedom to visit Crete’s top destinations, from Elafonisi Beach to Knossos Palace, without any restrictions.
The Rental Center Crete is also commended for its clean, modern, well-maintained vehicles and a hassle-free experience, including quick booking processes and transparent policies. Many reviewers highlight the convenience of vehicle delivery to hotels or airports, emphasizing the company’s focus on customer satisfaction. Rated with an impressive 4.9/5 stars on Google. Payment options include credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, or cash upon arrival, providing flexibility and convenience for all customers.
Rental Center Crete fleet caters to a variety of travel needs with small cars like the Fiat Panda and Toyota Aygo for city driving, medium cars for families or small groups, SUVs for exploring Crete’s rugged terrain, and minibuses for larger groups. All quoted prices include full insurance coverage, theft protection, unlimited mileage, VAT, and other taxes. Rental Center Crete rental includes unlimited mileage, allowing travellers to explore Crete without worrying about additional costs for distance travelled. Customers can enjoy the freedom to visit Crete’s top destinations, from Elafonisi Beach to Knossos Palace, without any restrictions.
The Rental Center Crete is also commended for its clean, modern, well-maintained vehicles and a hassle-free experience, including quick booking processes and transparent policies. Many reviewers highlight the convenience of vehicle delivery to hotels or airports, emphasizing the company’s focus on customer satisfaction. Rated with an impressive 4.9/5 stars on Google. Payment options include credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, or cash upon arrival, providing flexibility and convenience for all customers.
2. Santorini Rent A Car (Santorini)
Santorini Rent A Car is one of Greece’s most affordable car rental companies. The company operates from multiple convenient locations, including its main office in Perissa Village, a Santorini Airport (JTR) location, and a desk at the Athinios Ferry Port. Free pick-up and drop-off services are also available at hotels, villas, and other places across the island, making the rental process seamless. For inquiries, customers can contact Santorini Rent A Car at +30 22860 82880 or visit their website. Santorini Rent A Car stands out for its low daily rates for economy cars during the off-season. Economy cars like the Fiat Panda are available for €10/day ($11.00, £8.69) in the off-peak season. For a premium experience, luxury options like the Fiat 500 Cabrio are available from €80/day ($88.00, £69.38). The fleet includes a variety of budget-friendly options to suit different travel needs. Economy cars like the Fiat Panda are perfect for solo travellers or couples, compact cars like the Hyundai i20 are ideal for small families or groups, while spacious SUVs and stylish luxury cars like the Fiat 500 Cabrio provide added comfort and style.
Santorini Rent A Car prioritizes transparent pricing, with quotes that include unlimited mileage, theft insurance, taxes, and roadside assistance. Reviews highlight the hassle-free booking and return process, with many appreciating the free child seat service, flexible pick-up/drop-off locations, and the absence of hidden fees. Free cancellations are also available, offering added flexibility for travellers.
Santorini Rent A Car prioritizes transparent pricing, with quotes that include unlimited mileage, theft insurance, taxes, and roadside assistance. Reviews highlight the hassle-free booking and return process, with many appreciating the free child seat service, flexible pick-up/drop-off locations, and the absence of hidden fees. Free cancellations are also available, offering added flexibility for travellers.
3. Justrentals (Crete)
Justrentals, a trusted car rental company in Crete, Greece, is widely regarded as one of the most affordable and customer-friendly providers. Justrentals operates from multiple key locations across Crete, including the main office in Anissaras Hersonissos and stations at Heraklion Airport (Nikos Kazantzakis Airport) and Chania Airport. For inquiries or reservations, customers can contact Justrentals via phone at +30 28970 23083 or visit their website. Justrentals is considered one of Greece's cheapest car rental companies due to its economy car rates starting at €15/day ($19.60, £14.21) during the off-peak season. Its pricing includes full insurance with no excess, unlimited mileage, 24% VAT, roadside assistance, and free extras like child seats and additional drivers. Even during the high season, their prices remain competitive, including essential services. Justrentals also offers affordable minivan options for families or larger groups, starting at €25/day ($27.50, £21.69).
Justrentals provides a variety of budget-friendly vehicles to suit different travel needs. All vehicles are well-maintained, modern, and with safety features for a stress-free driving experience. Many reviews praise the hassle-free booking process and the absence of hidden fees. For example, one customer shared their positive experience of being met at Heraklion Airport by friendly staff who completed the paperwork quickly, while another appreciated the flexibility to return the car at a different location and the cleanliness of the vehicle. The easy-to-use online booking platform allows customers to view transparent pricing, select vehicle options, and reserve cars without requiring a deposit or credit card.
Justrentals provides a variety of budget-friendly vehicles to suit different travel needs. All vehicles are well-maintained, modern, and with safety features for a stress-free driving experience. Many reviews praise the hassle-free booking process and the absence of hidden fees. For example, one customer shared their positive experience of being met at Heraklion Airport by friendly staff who completed the paperwork quickly, while another appreciated the flexibility to return the car at a different location and the cleanliness of the vehicle. The easy-to-use online booking platform allows customers to view transparent pricing, select vehicle options, and reserve cars without requiring a deposit or credit card.
4. ACR (Athens)
ACR is considered one of Athens’s cheapest car rental options due to its low daily rates, flexible pricing, and all-inclusive options. The company operates from multiple convenient locations, including its main offices in Voula (serving southern Athens) and Koropi near Athens International Airport and Piraeus Port. Customers can contact ACR at +30 21 0602 2220 or visit their website for bookings, discounts, and availability. During the low season, economy cars like the Toyota Aygo are available for as little as €5/day ($5.50, £4.34), while compact cars such as the Toyota Corolla start at €13/day ($14.30, £11.28). ACR offers a diverse fleet of budget-friendly vehicles tailored to different needs. Economy cars are perfect for solo travellers or couples exploring Athens, while compact SUVs provide affordable and spacious options for families or small groups. ACR emphasizes transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges. All-inclusive rates cover unlimited mileage, basic insurance, taxes, and roadside assistance, giving customers peace of mind.
Customer feedback consistently highlights Athens Car Rental's affordability and reliability. Booking online with ACR is simple and intuitive. Customers can select vehicles by type, price, and availability and benefit from online discounts and promotions that ensure the lowest prices. The platform also offers free cancellations, providing added flexibility for travellers.
Customer feedback consistently highlights Athens Car Rental's affordability and reliability. Booking online with ACR is simple and intuitive. Customers can select vehicles by type, price, and availability and benefit from online discounts and promotions that ensure the lowest prices. The platform also offers free cancellations, providing added flexibility for travellers.
5. Eurorent (Corfu)
Eurorent is one of Greece’s most affordable and customer-friendly car rental companies, offering low daily rates, transparent pricing, and inclusive services. Their main office is at Eptanisou Avenue Road, near Corfu Green Bus Station, Moraitika 49084, Corfu, Greece. For inquiries or reservations, customers can contact Eurorent at +30 2661 075990 or visit their website to book online. Eurorent is considered highly affordable due to its economy cars starting at €21/day ($23.10, £18.21) and compact cars from €29/day ($31.90, £25.16). All rentals include full insurance, unlimited mileage, VAT, and taxes, ensuring no hidden costs. The Eurorent fleet caters to diverse needs and budgets. Compact cars offer added comfort for families or small groups, and SUVs or crossovers provide versatility for off-road adventures or extra space. Rates include unlimited mileage, allowing customers to explore Greece without worrying about extra distance charges. Customer reviews consistently praise Eurorent for its professional and friendly staff, well-maintained vehicles, and hassle-free service. Eurorent discounts are often available for online reservations, and free cancellations provide added flexibility for travellers.
6. Record rent a car (Thessaloniki)
Record Rent a Car is widely recognized as one of Greece's most affordable car rental companies, offering low daily rates, frequent discounts, and transparent pricing. The main office is at Thessaloniki - Peraias, Thermi 570 01, Thessaloniki, Greece. Customers can contact Record at +30 693 676 9764 or +30 2314 070 103, and bookings can be made directly through the website. Economy cars start at €20/day ($22.00, £17.34), compact cars from €25/day ($27.50, £21.69), and premium SUVs at competitive rates. Record caters to budget-conscious travellers.
Record Rent a Car’s affordability stems from its consistently low prices and frequent promotions, offering discounts of up to 30%. Rates are all-inclusive, covering VAT, unlimited mileage (for most categories), and fuel policies, ensuring no hidden fees or unexpected costs. Pricing policies are entirely transparent. Rates include unlimited mileage, enabling customers to explore freely without worrying about extra charges. Customer reviews highlight the strengths of Record Rent a Car, such as friendly and professional staff, well-maintained vehicles, and smooth pick-up/drop-off processes. The free shuttle service and the overall ease of the rental process are also frequently praised. Some customers, however, report delays during peak hours and high deposits for bookings without added insurance. Booking online with Record Rent a Car is straightforward and efficient. Online bookings often include additional discounts and promotions, enhancing affordability. Flexible policies also allow free cancellations up to 24 hours before pick-up, making it an excellent choice for travellers with evolving plans.
Record Rent a Car’s affordability stems from its consistently low prices and frequent promotions, offering discounts of up to 30%. Rates are all-inclusive, covering VAT, unlimited mileage (for most categories), and fuel policies, ensuring no hidden fees or unexpected costs. Pricing policies are entirely transparent. Rates include unlimited mileage, enabling customers to explore freely without worrying about extra charges. Customer reviews highlight the strengths of Record Rent a Car, such as friendly and professional staff, well-maintained vehicles, and smooth pick-up/drop-off processes. The free shuttle service and the overall ease of the rental process are also frequently praised. Some customers, however, report delays during peak hours and high deposits for bookings without added insurance. Booking online with Record Rent a Car is straightforward and efficient. Online bookings often include additional discounts and promotions, enhancing affordability. Flexible policies also allow free cancellations up to 24 hours before pick-up, making it an excellent choice for travellers with evolving plans.
7. Avance (Mykonos)
Avance Rent a Car, operating in Mykonos, is one of the most affordable car rental companies, offering low daily rates, transparent pricing, and a diverse range of vehicles. Avance Rent a Car operates conveniently from Mykonos Airport and other key locations, providing seamless access for travellers. The main office is at Mykonos Airport Arrivals Hall, 84600 Mykonos, Greece, +30 22890 24640. Economy cars, ideal for budget-conscious travellers, start at €11/day ($12.10, £9.54), while compact cars, offering extra space and comfort, are available from €14/day ($15.40, £12.14).
Avance Rent-A-Car fleet caters to a wide range of customer needs without exceeding budgets. Avance ensures transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. All rates include VAT, insurance, and roadside assistance, with unlimited mileage provided for most rentals. The full-to-full fuel policy ensures customers only pay for the fuel they use, further enhancing affordability and fairness. Travellers highlight clean, well-maintained vehicles, efficient pick-up and drop-off processes, and transparent pricing as standout features. Booking online with Avance is straightforward and user-friendly. The platform allows customers to browse vehicles, compare prices, and secure reservations in just a few steps. Online bookings often include exclusive discounts, and the flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travellers with changing plans.
Avance Rent-A-Car fleet caters to a wide range of customer needs without exceeding budgets. Avance ensures transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises. All rates include VAT, insurance, and roadside assistance, with unlimited mileage provided for most rentals. The full-to-full fuel policy ensures customers only pay for the fuel they use, further enhancing affordability and fairness. Travellers highlight clean, well-maintained vehicles, efficient pick-up and drop-off processes, and transparent pricing as standout features. Booking online with Avance is straightforward and user-friendly. The platform allows customers to browse vehicles, compare prices, and secure reservations in just a few steps. Online bookings often include exclusive discounts, and the flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travellers with changing plans.
8. City Rent a Car (Rodos)
City Rent a Car, based in Rhodes, Greece, is a favourite among budget-conscious travellers for its competitive pricing, inclusive rates, and excellent customer service. The company operates from multiple convenient locations, including its principal office at Alexandrou Diakou St. 84, Rhodes 85100, and a secondary office at 28th Oktovriou St. 80, Rhodes 85100. Free delivery and collection services are available at Rhodes Airport, the port, and hotels across the island. Economy cars start at just €20/day ($22.00, £17.34), compact cars from €25/day ($27.50, £21.68), and SUVs and premium models are similarly well-priced, making City Rent a Car one of the most affordable options in Greece.
City Rent a Car fleet caters to all travel needs and budgets. Economy cars, like the Fiat Panda or Hyundai i10, are perfect for solo travellers or couples. Compact vehicles like the Volkswagen Up offer additional space and comfort for small families or groups. SUVs provide roominess and are great for off-road adventures, and premium models, like the Audi A3 Cabrio, deliver luxury at competitive rates. Minivans remain an affordable choice for larger groups or families. City Rent a Car's website makes online booking seamless. Customers can browse vehicles, compare prices, and book with no deposit required. Payment is made upon vehicle pick-up, and free cancellation options provide flexibility for changing plans.
City Rent a Car fleet caters to all travel needs and budgets. Economy cars, like the Fiat Panda or Hyundai i10, are perfect for solo travellers or couples. Compact vehicles like the Volkswagen Up offer additional space and comfort for small families or groups. SUVs provide roominess and are great for off-road adventures, and premium models, like the Audi A3 Cabrio, deliver luxury at competitive rates. Minivans remain an affordable choice for larger groups or families. City Rent a Car's website makes online booking seamless. Customers can browse vehicles, compare prices, and book with no deposit required. Payment is made upon vehicle pick-up, and free cancellation options provide flexibility for changing plans.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Greece?
The cost of car renting in Greece varies widely depending on several factors, including the season, location, type of vehicle, and rental duration. On average, car rentals in Greece range from €20 ($22, £17) to €70 ($77, £60) per day for small cars during the mid-season (spring and autumn). During the high season (July and August), prices can increase significantly, with daily rates for small cars averaging €40 ($44, £34) to €100 ($100, £86). Low-season rentals (winter months) can drop to as low as €8 ($8.80, £6.94) to €20 ($22, £17) per day, especially for economy vehicles.
Rental costs also vary between mainland Greece and the islands. On the mainland, such as in Athens or Thessaloniki, prices are generally more competitive due to a higher supply of vehicles and larger rental companies. For example, small cars can start at €20 ($ 22, £17.34) daily in these areas. Prices on popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete tend to be higher due to increased demand and limited availability. For instance, renting a car in Santorini during peak season may cost between €50 ($55, £43) and €120 ($132, £104) per day, depending on the vehicle type. Vehicle type significantly impacts pricing as well. Economy cars are the most affordable option, while SUVs, luxury vehicles, convertibles, or 7-seaters can cost anywhere from €70 ($ 77, £60.69) to €200+ ($220, £173) per day, especially during high-demand periods. Longer rental durations often come with discounts. Weekly rentals average around €250 ($275, £216) to €500 ($550, £433) for economy cars during mid-season. Monthly rentals can offer even better value, with rates averaging €1,000 ($1,100.00, £866.88) to €2,000 ($2,200, £1,733), depending on the vehicle and company.
Rental costs also vary between mainland Greece and the islands. On the mainland, such as in Athens or Thessaloniki, prices are generally more competitive due to a higher supply of vehicles and larger rental companies. For example, small cars can start at €20 ($ 22, £17.34) daily in these areas. Prices on popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete tend to be higher due to increased demand and limited availability. For instance, renting a car in Santorini during peak season may cost between €50 ($55, £43) and €120 ($132, £104) per day, depending on the vehicle type. Vehicle type significantly impacts pricing as well. Economy cars are the most affordable option, while SUVs, luxury vehicles, convertibles, or 7-seaters can cost anywhere from €70 ($ 77, £60.69) to €200+ ($220, £173) per day, especially during high-demand periods. Longer rental durations often come with discounts. Weekly rentals average around €250 ($275, £216) to €500 ($550, £433) for economy cars during mid-season. Monthly rentals can offer even better value, with rates averaging €1,000 ($1,100.00, £866.88) to €2,000 ($2,200, £1,733), depending on the vehicle and company.
What is the average price for hiring a car in Mainland Greece?
The average cost of hiring a car in mainland Greece varies depending on the vehicle type, season, and rental company. Small economy cars are the most budget-friendly, with rates starting at €13 ($14.30, £11.28) per day during off-peak months like January or December. On average, renting a small car costs €22 ($24.20, £19.08) daily, making it an affordable option for solo travellers or couples. Medium-sized vehicles are priced at an average of €45 ($49.50, £39.05) per day, while larger cars such as SUVs or vans cost around €49 ($53.90, £42.52) to €83 ($91.30, £72.01) daily. Luxury cars and convertibles are more expensive, averaging €126 ($138.60, £109.31) and €64 ($70.40, £55.51) per day. Seasonality significantly impacts pricing, with peak summer months (July and August) seeing daily rates rise to €100 ($110, £86.73) or more.
What are the low-cost car hire in the Greek Islands?
Booking early or taking advantage of discounts can further enhance savings while ensuring a hassle-free experience during your trip to the Greek islands. Each of these car rental companies offers budget-friendly options tailored to travellers. These are:
- Surprice Car Rental: Surprice Car Rental offers affordable rates across Greece, including Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini. Small cars start at €20 ($22.00, £17.34) per day and an average daily rate of €45.74 ($50.32, £39.66). The company provides unlimited mileage, free cancellations up to 48 hours before pick-up, and no amendment fees, ensuring transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
- ACARENT: ACARENT is a cost-effective option in Crete, offering economy cars for €25 ($27.50, £21.68) per day. Known for friendly customer service and a convenient shuttle service from Chania Airport, ACARENT also provides early booking discounts. Mixed reviews cite concerns over vehicle condition and disputes regarding pre-existing damages.
- Avance Rent a Car: Avance Rent a Car operates on popular islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Zakynthos. Economy cars start at €14 ($15.40, £12.14) daily. Offering unlimited mileage, transparent policies, and convenient airport/port pick-up services, Avance is a highly affordable option.
- Santorini Dream Cars: Santorini Dream Cars specializes in budget-friendly rentals on Santorini, starting at €25 ($27.50, £21.68) per day for small cars. The company provides free pick-up and drop-off at the airport, port, or hotels, unlimited mileage, and free theft insurance with no hidden fees. A 15% discount is available for rentals exceeding three days.
- Autounion Car Rental: Autounion Car Rental operates across Greece, including Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu. Economy cars start at €20 ($22.00, £17.34) per day. Known for its fully inclusive rates, unlimited mileage, and 30 years of reliable service, Autounion is a trusted option for budget-conscious travellers.
- Hellascar: Hellascar serves Thessaloniki and several Greek islands, offering economy cars from €20 ($22.00, £17.34) per day. Rates include basic insurance, and the company provides free shuttle services from airports and ports. Customers commend Hellascar for its efficient pick-up/drop-off process, friendly staff, and competitive year-round prices.
What Are Some Essential Tips for Budget-friendly Car Rentals in Greece?
Renting a car in Greece can be budget-friendly if you follow essential tips to save money while ensuring a smooth experience. Here are some tips:
- Book in advance: Booking your car rental in advance is one of the most effective ways to secure lower prices. Early reservations often come with discounts and provide access to a wider selection of vehicles, especially during peak travel seasons. Ideally, aim to book 3–6 months ahead for the best deals.
- Choose economy or compact cars: Opting for smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars can significantly reduce costs. These cars are not only cheaper to rent but also more fuel-efficient, which is an added advantage when driving long distances in Greece. Manual transmission cars are exceptionally affordable compared to automatics.
- Rent from city locations: Renting a car at airports or ferry terminals is convenient, it often comes with additional surcharges. Consider picking up your rental from a city location to save money. Many rental companies offer free delivery to hotels or other locations within urban areas.
- Select honest fuel policies: Choose rental companies that offer "full-to-full" fuel policies. In these policies, you pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way. This avoids inflated refuelling charges and ensures you only pay for the fuel you use.
- Skip add-ons like GPS or wi-fi: Rental companies often charge extra for add-ons such as GPS devices, child seats, or Wi-Fi hotspots. Save money using your smartphone’s navigation apps or bringing your accessories if needed.
- Request unlimited mileage offers: Unlimited mileage is essential for travellers planning extensive road trips across mainland Greece or island-hopping. Ensure your rental agreement includes this feature to avoid unexpected charges for exceeding mileage limits.
- Scrutinize the car before driving: Before accepting the vehicle, thoroughly inspect it for any pre-existing damage and document it with photos or videos. This will protect you from being held responsible for damages already present.
- Use credit cards with rental insurance benefits: Many credit cards offer complimentary rental car insurance as part of their benefits. Check with your credit card provider to see if this applies in Greece and ensure it covers essential protections like collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection.
- Read the terms for hidden fees or conditions: Carefully review the rental agreement to identify hidden fees, such as charges for additional drivers, young driver surcharges, or penalties for ferrying the car between islands. Transparent companies will clearly outline all costs upfront.
What about you, have you ever been to Greece? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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